02 8.1L crankshaft problem?

[5150Watts]

I recently upgrade my 97 to a 02 2500HD with the 8.1L. I have discovered that the front crankshaft seal is leaking oil. I took it too a shop and they told me that the crankshaft has too much end play, and the seal can't be fixed without fixing this. That is a major engine overhaul. My question is, is there really a way to determine this with out tearing the engine down? Also, is this a common thing? It only has 77,000 miles on it. This surprises me for the mileage. So, any recommendations on what i should do?

[MT-2500]

Sounds strange.
Is the end play over specs?
Or how much end play doe it have?
Has a new seal been installed?

[kahjdh]

usually you would get this with manual transmissions. You dont need a whole overhaul but maybe a new thrust bearing or bearing set.

[5150Watts]

I do not know if it is out of spec. They only told me they noticed play when looked at the front seal. If it is a thrust bearing, can that be done from underneath through the pan, or pull the motor?

[MT-2500]

There is not enough miles on it to be bad yet.
Check it out real close.
I would get a second opinion/check on it.
End play should not wipe out the seal.
And if that much side play the engine would be knocking.
I would put a new seal in it and check the crank pulley snout.
They make a ready sleeve for a worn crank pulley snout.
Good Luck

[5150Watts]

I get a knock in morning for about a min then it goes away. I do get a flutter sound when i accelerate but I think the exhaust manifold is leaking a little. My 97 made the same noise. Other then that it sounds clean.

[777stickman]

Not sure about your '02 8.1, but I thought I had a front seal leak on my '98 7.4. Turned out to be the o-ring on the CKP (Crank Position Sensor).

[5150Watts]

It is the seal where the crank pulley is. At first, we thought it was the oil cooler lines.

[5150Watts]

It looks like the main seal is leaking as well. Guess it must be the thrust bearing.

[MT-2500]

Check end play before throwing thrust bearing at it.